Location

Spindle Cottage in the heart of the New Forest National Park, opens directly onto the open forest south of Sway. The New Forest ponies and cattle will frequently be seen roaming outside the cottage. A short walk will take to the Hare and Hounds with a children’s play area or you can walk to Sway for lunch at the Silver Hind. Cycles with tag-a-longs and baby seats can be hired from Brockenhurst for the many cycle trails close by. If you fancy a walk on the beach, lovely cream tea, fresh cakes or brunch then several beachfront cafes are only a short drive away in Barton-on-sea or Milford.

Jane, Robin and Evelyn live nearby and have many recommendations for great places to see and eat nearby. Having taught in an outdoor study centre there are many suggestions on how to get close to nature including: birdwatching, wildlife walks and nature books for all ages. Other child friendly local attractions include: Furzey Gardens for finding fairies, Longdown Farm for getting up close and feeding the animals or letting off steam in the ball pit and BIRO wooden play zone. Peppa Pig World is a popular attraction, with a fantastic range of rides for toddlers and it’s only 30 minutes away.

If you are drawn to the sea you have many choices only 20 minutes away. Mudeford is great for crabbing or lunch at The Beach Hut restaurant; remember to take the buckets, spades, crabbing nets and buckets! Lymington, a yachting haven, has a great selection of boutique shops and restaurants and a fantastic Saturday market. After a brisk walk along the sea wall head to The Ship for a child friendly lunch. Exbury Gardens offers a great day out you can immerse you in the amazing gardens with easy to navigate paths or rest little legs on the land train ride. Moor’s Valley has a plenty to do for toddler who like to explore and climb.

There are many restaurants well worth organising a baby sitter for: The Pig, Pebble Beach or Verveine (our personal favourite) to name three.